HANK WILLIAMS JR. REMEMBERS MERLE KILGORE

Hank Williams Jr. released this statement regarding his longtime manager and close friend, legendary songwriter Merle Kilgore, who passed away Feb. 6. "Merle was more to me than a manager," said Hank. "He was a father figure, he was a mentor, he was my business advisor, but most of all, Merle Kilgore, was my best friend. He's shared the good times with me and carried me through the bad-without judgment and without hesitation. He had heart, soul, compassion, business savvy, and a sense of humor. He's the definition of gentleman and scholar. I shall never know a greater man. The industry has lost an icon. I have lost a forever friend."